New Rotary president aims to attract more members

THE NEW president of Saddleworth Rotary Club said his vision is to recruit a diverse range of new members during his year.

Anthony Burke, left, newly-elected president of Saddleworth Rotary Club with his new vice president, Barbara Howse and outgoing president Stan Bowes

Anthony Burke was speaking at the hand-over of the chain of office from outgoing president Stan Bowes at the club’s headquarters, The White Hart at Lydgate.

Mr Burke, who lives in Diggle and is married with a daughter, has spent a lifetime as a senior management executive and consultant.

His Rotary work has centred on the establishment of the Engage, Develop, Succeed initiative, designed to build emotional intelligence and life skills for young people.

He told members and guests: “My vision for my year is to continue and embed the changing journey we are now on.

“My aim is recruiting a diverse range of new members while importantly retaining the energy and commitment of existing ones.

“To do this we must ensure our club culture meets the needs of new members and welcomes and engages them in all aspects of club life.”

He added: “I lead a strong and committed team. I believe they are more than capable of achieving the vision and ensuring the club views the world through the windscreen and not the rear view mirror.”

His vice president, Barbara Howse, a former secondary school headteacher, said: “I am looking forward to my role and still feel the need of a busy life and Saddleworth Rotary Club certainly provides this.

“There are many international, national and, especially, local causes to support and exciting events to organise, plus on-going fellowship, fun, friendship and support enjoyed by all members whether at meetings, conferences, events or just everyday life.”

Barbara’s husband, David, is the club’s treasurer and website manager.